The Council of Ministers adopted a resolution regarding the publication and exchange of health information related to communicable diseases and epidemics, and misinformation related to human health. And set a fine for those who promote health rumors in the country, amounting to 20 thousand dirhams.
The decision aims to preserve the integrity of the community, and to counter any misinformation that may mislead public opinion.
The decision comes in light of government efforts to promote health awareness among members of society, and provide them with the correct facts and guidance, through speakers, accredited experts, and accredited government sources, away from rumor mongers and false news.
The decision stipulated that the Ministry and the health authorities announce any health information, and issue and approve health guidelines in the country, in addition to issuing health guidelines related to epidemics, after the approval of the National Authority for Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management.
It is prohibited for any person, based on the decision, to publish, republish or circulate false, misleading, misleading, or not officially announced health information or guidelines, or that is not approved by the Ministry or health authorities, or contradicts what was announced, using audio or print media or Video, social media, websites, information technology or other methods of publishing or trading.
The ministries and federal and local government agencies must obtain the approval of the National Authority for Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management before responding or commenting on any incident related to health information related to epidemics, and nominate their official speakers in this regard, provided that the liaison office for the Emirates government in the General Secretariat of the Cabinet He depends on them.
Prohibiting the publication, re-publication or circulation of any false or unannounced health information or guidelines.
The decision limits the announcement of any health information or guidelines to the Ministry of Health and the concerned authorities.